Is Vinesh Phogat Right to Call for an End to the Agneepath Scheme Following the India-Pakistan Ceasefire?

Synopsis
As the India-Pakistan ceasefire marks a turning point, Olympian Vinesh Phogat advocates for the abolition of the Agneepath scheme, emphasizing the need for permanent service for soldiers. His passionate call highlights the respect and dignity our military personnel deserve during these turbulent times.
Key Takeaways
- Vinesh Phogat advocates for the abolition of the Agneepath scheme.
- Calls for permanent service and respect for soldiers.
- The ceasefire between India and Pakistan marks a significant diplomatic breakthrough.
- Increased national sentiment following recent terror attacks.
- Importance of addressing military policies affecting soldiers' futures.
New Delhi, May 10 (NationPress) In light of the recent ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan aimed at easing tensions, Olympian wrestler Vinesh Phogat has called on the government to reevaluate the Agneepath scheme, advocating for permanent service and respect for soldiers.
In a message shared on the social media platform X, Phogat honored the valor of Indian Army personnel during Operation Sindoor and demanded the abolition of the four-year service model introduced under the Agneepath recruitment initiative.
"I extend my heartfelt salute to the courageous soldiers of the Indian Army. Your bravery, discipline, and patriotism inspire us all. You stand resolute at the borders in all conditions, ensuring our safety. The nation is proud of you, and we owe you a debt of gratitude," Vinesh, a Congress party MLA from Haryana, stated.
"Additionally, I earnestly appeal to the Government of India to immediately discontinue the 4-year service policy under the Agneepath scheme. Our soldiers deserve more than just a few years of service; they are the pride of our nation. They should be granted permanent positions, respect, and a secure future. The strength of our military lies in experience, dedication, and continuity. Let’s bestow the respect they rightfully deserve upon our protectors," Phogat added on X.
This message comes at a time of heightened national sentiment following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists, including one Nepali citizen. India has accused the Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba of orchestrating this attack, a claim that both Pakistan and the group have denied.
In retaliation, India initiated a military operation known as Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This escalation led to significant shelling along the Line of Control (LoC), resulting in the deaths of at least 16 civilians in Jammu and Kashmir. Tensions further increased when Pakistan commenced drone incursions on May 8, prompting air raid alerts and power outages across multiple northern and western Indian states.
However, in a remarkable diplomatic achievement on Saturday, both nations reached an agreement for an immediate ceasefire. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed that New Delhi has consented to the truce, with both parties committing to a complete cessation of hostilities—on land, in the air, and at sea—effective from 5 PM Saturday.
The announcement of the ceasefire was preceded by a significant diplomatic effort from Washington. US President Donald Trump claimed that the United States facilitated the peace agreement, a statement supported by Secretary of State Marco Rubio.